Circular Design for Fashion
Ellen MacArthur Foundation
Direction, Éditorial, Illustration


Textile mills generate one-fifth of the world's industrial water pollution. Dedicated to their goal of creating a circular economy, The Ellen MacArthur Foundation commissioned us and renowned designers from all around the world to co-create the ultimate guide to redesign the future of fashion.

The Circular Design for Fashion book shows designers how to apply the three principles of circular design: eliminate waste, circulate products and regenerate nature all while staying fashionable. A work method that is necessary to sustain our ecosystems, but also a powerful driver of creativity and resilience for all players in the industry. A new creative lens to respond to today’s challenges.

Circular inside-out, the book was made using a planet positive printing process, run on 100% renewable energy, generating zero-waste. Every part of the production was taken into account to reach carbon neutrality, from the page format to maximize paper use to the waterless and alcohol-free offset press.

Each section was designed to reflect a unique fashion collection, using an eclectic and colorful iconography. Graphic elements were inspired by sewing stitches, patterns and symbols linked to the world of couture. The CMYK colours were reinterpreted by switching them to Pantone inks, to match the Foundation’s brand palette while giving the printed object a surprising and distinctive finish.

As a result of collaborating with more than 80 circular design practitioners, including big brands, independent labels, fashion designers, fabricants and resale specialists from all around the world, the project was able to reach and inspire a vast community. More than just a book, it is an invitation to embark on a journey of circularity.
























































Agency: Sid Lee
Design Director: Marie-Elaine Benoit
Art Direction and Graphic Design: Mélanie Boucher, Marie Chénier 
Illustrations: Marie Chénier, Benjamin Lamingo L'écuyer
Coordination and Production: Marie-Christine Aucoin, Marie-Christine Côté, Annie Dufresne
Photographer (Case Study): Charles Vary

Print Production: M&H Polystudios
Printer: Seacourt

Client: Ellen MacArthur Foundation
Circular Design for Fashion Programme Manager: Elodie Rousselot

Circular Design for Fashion Analyst: Egoitz Tellitu Diez
Make Fashion Circular Analyst: Cornélie Martin
Former Make Fashion Circular Lead: François Souchet
Make Fashion Circular Lead: Laura Balmond
Circular Design Programme Lead: Joe Illes
Executive Lead, Systemic Initiatives: Rob Opsomer
Chief Executive: Andrew Morlet


Award : 2022 One Show - Editorial / Books - Gold Pencil




© 2024 Mélanie Boucher



© 2024 Mélanie Boucher